Delish News: New Restaurant Openings, Pop-ups in Hong Kong this Dec. 2023

As the year comes to a close and Christmas approaches, Hong Kong's dining scene is buzzing with new dining spots that will end the season with a bang. From the return of the oldest Italian restaurant, La Taverna, and the arrival of French-inspired sandwich guru Croque to the opening of Nikutoieba Matsuda, the renowned Japanese Wagyu Kappou restaurant, there's something for every palate to explore and enjoy. Here are the best newly opened restaurants and other unmissable F&B happenings in Hong Kong this December!
New Restaurant Openings in Hong Kong Dec. 2023
Italian Restaurant La Taverna Reopens in TST

After a brief hiatus, Hong Kong's oldest Italian restaurant, La Taverna, is back to capture the essence of its rich heritage while embracing contemporary elements. The Tsim Sha Tsui-based spot welcomes patrons with its traditional homely design, featuring original Italian furniture and a captivating display of straw chianti bottles, evoking an authentic 1960s Italian ambiance. The recent revamp introduces a deli counter and an inviting Italian-style outdoor terrazzo, providing patrons with the choice of casual all-day al fresco dining. Aside from its signature dishes like Spaghetti alla Milionario, Homemade burrata with mixed tomato salad, and Crostini di Fegatini Toscani, guests can savour a wide variety of wines from the historic estate, Montecastello.
Where: La Taverna, G/F, 36-38 Ashley Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Library-inspired Bochord Features Sophisticated 7-Course Menu

Venture into a world of culinary sophistication at Bochord, where the ambiance is reminiscent of a bygone era. Conceptualised as a “library,” the interior exudes an air of timeless elegance, adorned with a rich walnut wood tone, traditional coffered ceiling, and a built-in bookshelf that houses literary masterpieces. Try their menu that transcends borders, offering an exquisite selection of global beef delicacies and a meticulously crafted seven-course tasting experience. Indulge in gastronomic delights such as the Nagasaki Chicken Roulade with Beetroot Salad, and the tantalising Carabinero Red Prawn with Shrimp Roe Noodle, each dish a testament to the chef's artistry and dedication to culinary excellence.
Where: Bochord, Shop 1101, 11/F, World Trade Center, 280 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
Singaporean-Malay Restaurant Shiok Delights Eaters in Mong Kok

Located in Mong Kok, Shiok Restaurant by Atum Group offers a delightful array of Southeast Asian delicacies, thoughtfully curated to offer an authentic culinary journey at accessible prices. From the succulent coffee pork ribs and Singapore chilli crab to the irresistible fried chicken skin rolls and char kway teo with tiger prawns, each dish exudes a harmonious blend of flavours and textures. For those craving a sweet finish, the kaya butter toast presents a comforting yet indulgent conclusion to the meal.
Where: Shiok, Shop 110 &111, 1/F, THE FOREST, 17 Nelson Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon
Croque Brings French-Inspired Sandwiches to Central

Bringing a slice of France to Hong Kong, sandwich specialist Croque prepares to open its doors in December. Nestled in Wellington, Croque promises to be a haven for lovers of the iconic croque monsieur, a mouthwatering French ham and cheese sandwich that reflects a true taste of Parisian indulgence. Watch out for "The Classic" sandwich, a masterful creation featuring a blend of Paris ham, Emmental cheese, mornay béchamel, and pickles. Each bite promises to transport you to the quaint streets of Paris, where this beloved delicacy has been savoured for generations.
Where: Croque, 1 Lyndhurst Tower, 78 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong
Nikutoieba Matsuda Brings Japanese Wagyu to Hong Kong

Experience the culinary mastery of Nikutoieba Matsuda, the renowned Japanese Wagyu Kappou restaurant, as it unveils its first international location on the vibrant Gough Street in Hong Kong. Prepare to be transported to a world of Wagyu wonders in the cozy ambiance of intimate counter seats, where you can "ooh" and "aah" at the marbled meats.
Since its inception in 2020, the restaurant has garnered widespread acclaim, and now, the Hong Kong outpost brings the same authentic menu that has won hearts in Japan. Indulge in a 14-course tasting extravaganza that showcases the unparalleled flavours of Wagyu beef, expertly curated by Head Chef Ishibashi Hitoshi.
Where: Nikutoieba Matsuda, 39 Gough Street, Central, Hong Kong
Korean BBQ Chain Dong Baek Arrives in Kowloon

Experience the highly anticipated arrival of Dong Baek, the renowned Busan-based Korean barbecue sensation, now in Hong Kong. Step into a stylish and spacious setting that seamlessly combines traditional Korean elements with modern design. Dong Baek’s meticulous ingredient selection ensures an exceptional barbecue experience. Delight in their signature flower pork belly slices – thin, quick cooking, and irresistibly rich with a touch of sweetness. Don’t miss the perfectly balanced Jeju Iberico park butt, or indulge in premium Hanwoo and Wagyu beef cuts.
Where: Dong Baek, Shop 506, /F, Airside, 2 Concorde Road, Kai Tak
Trippa Milano and Testina Join Forces For an Exclusive 3-Day Pop-up

Get ready for an extraordinary culinary reunion as the mastermind behind your favourite refined Trattoria makes a triumphant comeback to Hong Kong. Testina is buzzing with excitement as award-winning Chef Diego Rossi and business partner Pietro Caroli from Trippa Milano join forces for an exclusive three-day event. Combining their talents with Testina’s own culinary maestro, Chef Marco Xodo, they are are poised to deliver an unforgettable Milanese experience that will transport your taste buds to new heights.
Where: Testina, 3/F, 8 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, Hong Kong
Delish Happenings You May Have Missed
As a testament to Hong Kong's culinary prowess, two of the city's most esteemed chefs have been recognised on the global stage. Chef Vicky Lau and Chef Agustin Balbi secured impressive positions on the list of the Best Chef Awards 2023, which was held in Mexico this month. Chef Vicky Lau, from two-Michelin-starred TATE Dining Room and Michelin Green-starred MORA, secured the 53rd position, while Chef Agustin Balbi, from one-MICHELIN-starred Ando, clinched the 46th spot.
Meanwhile, Baccarat and Anne-Sophie Pic rolled out a new collaboration with Cristal Room, the latest sophisticated dining destination in the heart of Central. Guests can enjoy the panoramic views of the iconic Victoria Harbour from above the city centre location of LANDMARK. Indulge in signature dishes like Les Berlingots ASP, featuring sobacha pasta filled with aged Comte cheese and served with a coffee and sobacha-infused mushroom consommé. Or have a taste of Provence with the Blue Lobster from Brittany, cooked over embers with rosemary and Douglas fir, and served with lobster coral beurre blanc.
Also in Central, Pâtisserie Millefeuille on Staunton Street opened its doors for your afternoon tea bites. Led by pastry chef Lionel Bodros, the pâtisserie offers signature mini millefeuilles like Vanilla Hazelnut, Vanilla Caramel, and Pistachio Raspberries, as well as an assortment of petit gateaux, including Mont Blanc and Lemon Tart.
After a brief pause due to its renovation, Chôm Chôm is back with revamped cocktails, a bespoke bia hoi beer, and a special menu curated by Head Chef Logan Hester. Be sure to try their flavour-packed concoctions with a Vietnamese twist, priced at no more than HK$88. Also, a must-try is Chôm Chôm's own Bia Hoi brew served on tap, as well as refreshing snacks like Chicken & Cabbage Salad, Pho Roll, Salt & Pepper Soft Shell Crab, and the Ca Ri Fried Chicken.
Over at Lamma Island, we recently reviewed Terracotta Lamma, a gorgeous Mediterranean restaurant that takes inspiration from its outlying Island surroundings. With Chef Richard Solnik manning the kitchen, expect dishes that are made to share and served in rustic terracotta plates. The menu revolves around Mediterranean-style tapas and side dishes for grazing on, bookending a handful of char-grilled mains. Check out our full review here.
Lastly, don’t miss The Chocolate Atelier at the Landmark in Central, where you can revel in an afternoon session featuring free-flow access to a world of cacao! Enjoy workshops and tastings, as well as exclusive pairings, including Chocolate & Rare Tea, Chocolate & Wine, and Chocolate & Sake. Click the event below to secure your spot.
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